The society will fly the remaining 171 dogs to the US and Canada in the final leg of the shipment to be placed with its partner shelters.

HSI is working to reduce the dog meat trade in Asia, including South Korea where dogs are farmed for the trade.

The organisation says it has worked with the farm owner in South Korea to permanently shut it down and remove all dogs living in miserable conditions.

He has also signed an agreement with HSI to stop raising dogs for meat and permanently leave the trade.

SPCA of Texas said the dogs were beginning to adapt to their new greener surroundings, adding: “These are six more dogs who won’t suffer any more, and who are now receiving every bit of care, love and attention they so richly deserve as they make their journey towards homes of their very own.

“Some of the dogs are starting to play with toys, some are starting to cuddle in their beds and some are starting to get to know the feel of soft grass beneath their feet and warm sun on their fur.”

HSI says it will work with other dog farmers who agree to get out of the dog meat trade permanently and transition into non-animal based trades.